Michael Adebowale, one of the two men arrested in connection with the murder of a soldier in the London suburb of Woolwich last week, was on Thursday charged with offences under the Terrorism Act while a second suspect, Michael Adebolajo, remained in hospital under police guard.
Both were filmed brandishing blood-soaked knives and demanding the return of British troops from ``Muslim’’ countries after allegedly killing the 25-year-old serving soldier, Lee Rigby.
Adebowale (22), who had been in hospital after being shot by the police, appeared in court with a bandaged right hand and limped badly as he approached the dock. He was told not to stand because of his injuries.
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Dressed in a grey top and white trousers, he held his injured right hand close to his body. He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address and was remanded in custody until June 3.
Adebowale was charged with Rigby’s murder and being in possession of arms.
Bethan David, specialist prosecutor with the Crown Prosecution Service counter-terrorism division, told the court that the charges fell under the jurisdiction of terrorism legislation.
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Of the eight others arrested, two have been released without charge and six are on bail.
A post-mortem examination found that Rigby’s death was caused by "multiple incised wounds."
.An inquest will be formally opened on Friday.